Tabby Wothaya: Meet Kenya's Most Fashionable TikToker Teacher With Master's Degree

• Tabby Wothaya gained popularity on TikTok for her laid back approach to teaching, which endeared her to her students
• The high school teacher with a master's degree narrated giving up law for the classroom
• Tabby also weighed in on her impeccable style, using TikTok to make learning fun and handling indiscipline cases

Tabby Wothaya, a fashionable Kenyan teacher making waves with her videos on TikTok, has shared her journey to the classroom.

Why did Tabby Wothaya give up law for teaching?

“I have always wanted to be a lawyer, and I joined the University of Nairobi to pursue a law degree. However, I realised that teaching was my calling, so I switched to education."

Tabby, who followed in her mother’s footsteps to impart knowledge, said she has no regrets about ditching Law, which arguably pays better.

“I feel like I made the right decision. The challenges include the not-so-good pay, but I love my job. I feel fulfilled interacting with my students with my diverse personalities.”

Tabby’s TikTok success was so immense that it changed her career trajectory.

“I obtained a Master’s in Corporate Governance from the UoN and wanted to join the Ministry of Education at the decision-making level to see how we can improve leadership in schools.

But TikTok changed all that, and I want to change negative perceptions about teachers.”

Tabby said she was saddened by TikTokers narrating bad experiences with teachers and is out to change some negative perceptions surrounding the profession.

“Some people were traumatised by teachers, which is very unfortunate. TikTok has given me a platform to show people that not every teacher is like that.

I also want to show those who passed through the 8-4-4 system that learning can be fun.”

Interestingly, Tabby’s TikTok journey was inspired by a former student.

“He always encouraged me to share content online and would ask whether I had posted anything.”

Tabby’s unique approach to teaching has endeared her to her students, who now look up to her.

“You find them opening up to me about challenges they go through. I always look for a way to help them, whether it involves the parent or school counsellor.”

Despite Tabby’s close relationship with her students, she insisted on the importance of having professional boundaries.

Who influenced Tabby Wothaya's style?

Touted by many as Kenya’s best-dressed teacher, Tabby spoke about her style.

“I get my style from my mother- she has unmatched style. She is my fashion guru and inspiration and never disappoints with her dresses.”

Tabby, whose videos paint the picture of a ‘cool’ teacher, weighed in on the government outlawing corporal punishment in schools.

“We respect the fact that corporal punishment was outlawed, but some parents insist that we use this form of punishment on their children.

However, we have other ways to address indiscipline cases such as negative reinforcement, guidance and counselling.”

Tabby also advocates for responsible and constructive social media use among youths.

“I always tell my students that the internet never forgets. They should ask themselves whether they would be proud to see whatever they’re posting in the next 10

While it’s tempting to court controversy and go viral, always remember your morals and make critical decisions.”

How did Tabby Wothaya go viral?

Tabby became a TikTok hit after posting a video jokingly celebrating a cancelled class.

She rhythmically danced to a dancehall song while carrying a pile of books.

Many Kenyans said they wished they had a teacher like her.